Replacing or installing windows can be stressful for many homeowners. Whether it’s deciding which type of windows are best for you, choosing the right kind of glazing, or even considering if you need to replace your windows at all, there are a lot of factors to consider.
So, how do you know if you need to replace windows in your home? Perhaps you recently noticed that one or more of your windows have become difficult to open – a common problem, especially with wood windows. Maybe there’s too much sound pouring in from the street in front of your home, or condensation has begun building up between your double pane glass. Or, maybe you conducted a home energy audit after discovering your energy bills had been steadily increasing. These are common problems and are usually good indicators that it’s time for a window replacement. However, we went one step further and asked window experts some of the most common questions homeowners have when replacing windows in their homes.
1. How do I know if moisture is the problem with my windows?
When moisture accumulates on the inside of the window, it may be a sign that your windows are starting to fail. If you’re noticing condensation or mold inside the window and/or moisture pooling on the window sill, then you have reason to be concerned.
Moisture issues typically show up in fogging between the window panes or condensation on the side of the window facing your home’s interior. Special seals hold double pane windows in place and, over time, can harden and crack. Cracking is especially prevalent with vinyl windows, where the window frame expands in the heat and contracts during the colder months. This pattern of expansion and contraction causes this seal to crack, resulting in fogging and, ultimately, a failed window.
If you’re experiencing these issues, there are some things you can try before undertaking a window replacement project.
- Make sure you have a moisture barrier in the crawl space under…